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Physical activity and cognitive function among older adults with hypertension
1Jackson Heart Study Vanguard Center of Oxford, Physical Activity Epidemiology Laboratory, Exercise Psychology Laboratory School of Applied Sciences, Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, The University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi, USA.
Journal of Hypertension
|February 22, 2017
Summary
Physically active hypertensive adults demonstrated better cognitive function. Meeting physical activity guidelines was linked to higher scores on cognitive tests, suggesting a positive impact on brain health in this population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cardiovascular Health
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Systemic hypertension is a prevalent condition in older adults.
- Cognitive decline is a significant concern in aging populations.
- The relationship between physical activity and cognitive function in hypertensive individuals requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between physical activity and cognitive function.
- To investigate this relationship in a national sample of US adults with hypertension.
- To determine if meeting physical activity guidelines impacts cognitive performance.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the 1999-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
- Included 1554 hypertensive adults aged 60-85 years.
- Assessed cognitive function using the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) and physical activity via metabolic equivalent of task-min-month calculations.
Main Results:
- Individuals meeting moderate-to-vigorous physical activity guidelines showed significantly higher DSST scores.
- Unadjusted analysis revealed an 8.3-unit increase in DSST scores.
- Adjusted analysis, controlling for multiple health factors, still showed a 6.23-unit increase in DSST scores for physically active participants.
Conclusions:
- Adherence to physical activity guidelines is associated with enhanced cognitive function in older adults with hypertension.
- Promoting physical activity may be a beneficial strategy for maintaining cognitive health in this demographic.
- These findings highlight the importance of physical activity for brain health in hypertensive populations.
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